Lemongrass Chicken Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemongrass Chicken Stir Fry offers a delightful mix of flavors that is both bold and refreshing. The lemongrass brings a citrusy punch, the fish sauce adds a deep umami flavor, and the brown sugar balances everything out with a hint of sweetness. Add in the heat from jalapenos, the crunch of onions, and the fresh cilantro, and you’ve got a dish that’s deliciously complex and satisfying. It’s quick to make, incredibly flavorful, and pairs beautifully with rice, making it a well-rounded meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 lemongrass stalks (tough outer layers removed, minced, divided)
• 2 1/2 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 jalapenos (seeded and minced, divided)
• 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro (for serving)
• 1/4 cup rice (plus additional for serving)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, 1 stalk of minced lemongrass, 1 1/2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 minced jalapeno. Mix well and marinate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
5. Stir in the chicken stock, lime juice, and the remaining lemongrass and jalapeno. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve the stir fry over rice, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15-30 minutes (for marinating)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30-45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Lemongrass Chicken: If you prefer more heat, keep the seeds in the jalapenos or add more fresh chilies to the stir fry.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
• Add Veggies: Enhance the stir fry by adding bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli for more texture and nutrition.
• Lemongrass Beef Stir Fry: Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef for a different protein choice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock to prevent the stir fry from drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for the best results.

2. What if I don’t have lemongrass?

If you can’t find fresh lemongrass, you can substitute with a teaspoon of lemongrass paste or use a combination of lemon zest and a dash of ginger for a similar citrusy flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stir fry in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may even intensify over time.

4. How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?

If you prefer a sweeter stir fry, increase the brown sugar. For a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar slightly.

5. Is this stir fry spicy?

The heat level depends on how many jalapenos you use. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapenos, or use just one.

6. Can I use a different type of fish sauce?

Yes, if you don’t have fish sauce, you can use soy sauce or tamari for a different umami flavor, though it will alter the taste slightly.

7. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

8. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or snap peas would make great additions to this stir fry.

9. Can I freeze this stir fry?

It’s best to consume this dish fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Just keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change upon reheating.

10. Can I serve this without rice?

Yes, if you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can serve the stir fry on its own or with cauliflower rice as a substitute for regular rice.

Conclusion

Lemongrass Chicken Stir Fry is an easy and flavorful dish that packs a punch with its aromatic lemongrass, savory fish sauce, and zesty lime. It’s quick to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and discover the delicious layers of flavor in every bite!

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